If you are in a hurry, try Image/Auto Color in Photoshop

I rarely carry a bag anymore. I have a strap that holds an extra battery and memory card. Depending on what I'm doing, I occasionally use a home sewn pouch I hang on my belt for another lens.

I started using Linux in late 1993 and still use Linux. That said, I can't recommend it for non-it professionals as every system ultimately ends up being a one off that only a few can support. This is opposed to Windows and Mac with some modicum of standardization that have hordes of people that can support it.

There is no doubt that Microsoft is trying to force everyone into its idea of moving to its version of the cloud, i.e. things like Onedrive and Azure. I certainly won't defend default settings in Windows 11 for Onedrive, or the unnecessary reworking of a U/I that people have become accustomed to. That said, once you get used to it, Windows 11 does get the job done.

I've used Aluminyze and MPix both with good results. I recommend ordering a small test print with dark shadow and bright highlights so you know what to expect.

LOL, you may be one of the younger people here :-) Old dogs are actually good at learning new tricks, welcome aboard.

That’s the least of our worries. We all carry around internet connected microphones and cameras equipped with GPS. Those awesome maps that show traffic congestion- guess how they get that up to date information.

And it’s about to get more concerning. In the next few years, AI agents that live on your phone and act as personal assistants that make you life so much easier will be on ubiquitous. Imagine the influence these can have in the hands of for profit corporations.

I’m a 1960 model too, but I don’t look as good and I no longer can go as fast either :-)

Beautiful! And a great reminder that the art of photography is the product of the photographer, not the latest gear.

I like having a beard but my wife hates it. I shave often…

Modern medicine is almost miraculous, and coupled with a positive attitude enables our bodies to heal.

As a Canon guy, I would opt for an RP with a 24-240 & 16mm lens. Get a USA Gear case and neck strap with pouches for an extra battery and memory card.

I see the Z50 has an HDR mode: https://www.manualslib.com/manual/2004550/Nikon-Z-50.html?page=262

What you are really looking for HDR, High Dynamic Range photography. Multiple images are exposed and combined to have ideal exposure for different parts of the scene.

Another example of where you use this is daytime interior shots; a well exposed interior has the view from a window blown out; HDR gets you a much better result.

Check the manual for your camera to determine if it has an HDR mode. You can also combine them in post processing. There are a wide variety of ways to do this and an internet search should yield a method that matches your equipment setup.

Also, at night, always try to use a tripod for long exposure times

IMHO, the art and science of photography will continue to be important.

The equipment are tools to record reality as well as express imagination. Generative AI is another artistic expression and commercial art tool. AI does not record reality.

As for those who make their living with a camera there will be little impact as well. Anything that is a recording of reality, e.g. weddings, landscapes, wildlife, etc. is only impacted by better tools that a pro knows how to exploit. Portrait Pro is a good example.

Knowing what to record and express takes a photographer, the tools are just a means to an ends that AI won't replace.

In my opinion not even close. More sensitive sensors would allow better low light performance and much higher shutter speeds throughout the aperture range. Meta lenses might someday allow full frame performance in a mobile phone package; the bet camera is the one you have with you. Ultra sharp super zooms would make light work of high quality travel photography. AI that not only focuses on a recognized object but also automatically takes multiple images selecting the best shots. I could go on for more paragraphs about video and the lack of good inexpensive choices.

Our toolset is certainly far more than adequate, but new tools would make our tasks easier.

My favorite flowers :-) Well done!